A Somaliland police officer handed over a man suspected of killing his brother to authorities Saturday rather than seeking revenge, prompting the police command to announce plans to honor him for his actions.

The officer, identified as Ahmed Geddi Mohamed Abdi, surrendered the suspect and his brother’s body to security authorities following the killing near Erigavo in Somaliland’s Sanaag region, according to an eyewitness account.

Rather than retaliating against the suspect, Ahmed Geddi chose to leave the case to law enforcement authorities for investigation and prosecution.

In a statement, the Somaliland Police Command praised the officer for exercising restraint and upholding the law despite the personal tragedy.

The command said Ahmed Geddi would receive an award and special recognition for demonstrating professionalism, courage and commitment to his duties.

Somaliland Police Commissioner Brig. Gen. Abdirahman Abdillahi Hassan invited the officer to police headquarters to formally recognize his conduct.

The commissioner also directed the Sanaag regional police commander to arrange for Ahmed Geddi’s immediate transfer to police headquarters, where he would receive the planned award.

The circumstances surrounding the killing, including the motive and the identity of the suspect, were not immediately disclosed.  Authorities also did not indicate whether formal charges had been filed against the suspect.

The incident has attracted public attention because the officer chose to pursue legal action rather than personal retaliation, an approach that could help prevent further violence arising from the killing.

Somaliland police described his decision as an example of professionalism and respect for the rule of law, saying his conduct deserved recognition.